Prompt Engineering: Getting the Best Out of AI

Artificial intelligence is only as good as the instructions we give it. That’s where prompt engineering comes in. Prompt engineering is the practice of crafting effective inputs — or “prompts” — to guide AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, or Suno to deliver the results we want.

At Digital Alchemist Online, an AI solutions company in Auckland, New Zealand, we see prompt engineering as one of the most important skills for using AI tools in New Zealand and beyond. It’s how you move from random results to purposeful, creative outcomes.

What is a Prompt?

A prompt is simply what you type or say to an AI system. It could be a question, a command, or a description. For example:

• “Write me a cover letter for a graphic designer role in Auckland.”

• “Generate an image of a kiwi bird surfing at Piha Beach.”

• “Make a pop song about summer holidays in New Zealand.”

The better the prompt, the better the result.

Why Prompt Engineering Matters

AI models are powerful, but they don’t “know” what you’re thinking. They only respond to what you type.

A vague prompt like “make a picture of a bird” might give you something generic.

A clear prompt like “a detailed digital painting of a kiwi bird surfing at sunset, cinematic style” gives the AI more guidance and produces a stronger output.

Prompt engineering saves time, improves accuracy, and helps you get creative results faster.

Techniques for Better Prompts

Here are a few strategies to improve your prompts:

1. Be specific – Add details about style, tone, or format.

   • Instead of “write a poem,” try “write a short, funny poem about coffee in the style of Dr Seuss.”

2. Use step-by-step instructions – Break tasks into smaller parts.

   • For example, “List five blog ideas about AI in education. Then expand the first one into a 300-word draft.”

3. Set the role of the AI – Tell the AI how to act.

   • “You are a career coach. Help me write a CV for a marketing job.”

4. Iterate – Refine the prompt if the first result isn’t right.

   • Adjust wording, add constraints, or ask for revisions.

Prompt Engineering Across Tools

Different AI platforms respond to prompts in unique ways:

• ChatGPT / Claude / Gemini → best for writing, coding, and Q&A.

• Midjourney / DALL·E → focus on descriptive visuals and style references.

• Suno / Udio → lean on mood, genre, and lyrical ideas.

• Runway / Pika / Sora → guide cinematic language, camera angles, and movement.

Learning how each platform interprets prompts is key to mastering them.

Why It Matters for You

For creators, businesses, and educators in New Zealand, prompt engineering is a practical skill. It helps you:

• Write content faster.

• Create more accurate visuals and videos.

• Save money by reducing trial and error.

At Digital Alchemist Online, we teach prompt engineering as part of our workshops and training. It’s the foundation for unlocking AI’s potential in both creative and professional projects.

Final Thoughts

Prompt engineering is not about coding or complex rules. It’s about clear communication. The more precise and creative your prompts, the more powerful AI becomes.

Want to learn prompt engineering hands-on? Contact us at Digital Alchemist — your AI solutions company in Auckland, New Zealand — and start getting the results you want from AI.